81 pages 2 hours read

Rodman Philbrick

Freak the Mighty

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1993

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Freak the Mighty follows the friendship between Maxwell Kane, a shy and misunderstood 12-year-old, and Kevin "Freak," an intelligent boy with a physical disability. Together, they embark on adventures, confront bullies, and face numerous challenges, while their bond helps them navigate societal rejection and personal fears. The story includes themes of trauma and violence.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick has been broadly praised for its heartwarming and poignant depiction of an unlikely friendship between two boys. Readers appreciate the compelling characters and the emotional depth. However, some criticize the narrative for its occasional predictability. Overall, it's celebrated as an inspiring tale that addresses themes of friendship and resilience.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Freak the Mighty?

Readers who enjoyed Wonder by R.J. Palacio or Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson will likely appreciate Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick. Ideal for middle grade readers, this novel captivates those interested in themes of friendship, overcoming obstacles, and personal growth.

RecommendedReading Age

10-14years

Lexile Level

930L

Book Details

Genre

Realistic Fiction

Children's Literature

Education

Topics

Bullying

Disability

Education

Themes

Relationships: Friendship